“Ampelos” (the Greek word for “vine) was inspired by the icon of the “True Vine.” The 12 leaves on the gold overlay symbolize the 12 apostles while the 5 “fruits” of the vine (the golden balls) represent the wounds of Christ. The shield on the guard is also representative of the right and left hand of Christ, the right creating space and expanding what is central, the left being the chaotic vine, bringing change from the outside.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”

The blade is 15” of 4-bar twist damascus steel (1084 and 15n20) with an overall length of 20.5” It has an elk antler handle with Damascus fittings and 18k gold inlay, overlay, twisted wire inlay on the handle, and melted onto the guard and pommel. Ampelos comes with the magnetic, forged vine stand.

*Winner of “Best Custom Fixed Blade” and “Custom Best in Show” at Blade Show West 2024